Lewis Hamilton has explained why he didn’t pose with his fellow Formula 1 drivers, after they shared a group picture in support of Ukraine. The other 18 drivers posed in front of a Ukrainian flag as well as a banner that included the lettering ‘no war’ following Russia ’s recent invasion of the country. The full driver quota of 20 was not completed for the picture though due to
Hamilton’s absence, and Haas’ recent sacking of Russian racer Nikita Mazepin. After many noticed that the seven-time world champion wasn’t in attendance a number of questions were raised about his absence. However, Hamilton has now revealed why he isn’t present in the photo via a social media post online. Taking to his Instagram story, the Englishman uploaded the photo of his fellow drivers with the caption:
Great to see our sport coming together in this way. Hamilton then went on to share a later post, raising awareness of an online fundraiser to his 27 million Instagram followers that is raising funds for the Ukrainian cause. He wrote: “I’m supporting the efforts of @disastersemergencycommittee. If you want to contribute here’s more info. The Disasters Emergency Committee is an umbrella group of the UK’s 15 leading aid charities, with
local partners in Ukraine and bordering countries. “They are directing funds towards providing food + water, first aid, shelter and hygiene to those who need it most. They’re focused on training people to provide aid, support firefighters, repair vital infrastructures and more.” The seven-time world champion will no doubt be looking to put the
2021 season behind him, after he was agonisingly denied a record eighth title on the very final lap of the year in Abu Dhabi last December. Hamilton – and his fellow F1 drivers – will return for the start of another campaign a week on Sunday, when the season opener kicks off at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
